______heighten a person’s senses by arousing the central nervous systelli.
a) Depressants
b) Stimulants
c) Narcotics
d) Tranquilizers
e) Hallucinogens
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b) Stimulants.
Stimulants are a class of drugs that activate the central nervous system, increasing the activity of the brain and body. When consumed, stimulants heighten a person’s alertness, energy levels, and physical performance by increasing the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are involved in regulating mood, focus, and arousal. As a result, stimulants can make an individual feel more awake, alert, and energized.
Common examples of stimulants include caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines, and cocaine. These substances can lead to temporary feelings of euphoria, increased heart rate, and heightened sensory perception. However, stimulants can also have negative side effects when used excessively, such as increased anxiety, restlessness, and the risk of addiction.
In contrast, depressants (like alcohol and benzodiazepines) slow down the activity of the central nervous system and have the opposite effect, promoting relaxation and sedation. Narcotics (such as opioids) are primarily used for pain relief and induce a sense of calm and drowsiness. Tranquilizers are a type of sedative used to reduce anxiety and relax muscles. Hallucinogens (like LSD or psilocybin) affect the perception of reality, often causing hallucinations or altered states of consciousness, but they do not primarily act as stimulants or increase sensory sensitivity in the way that stimulants do.
Thus, stimulants are the correct answer because they directly enhance sensory perception and energy by activating the central nervous system.